Sunil Chhetri extends contract with Bengaluru FC | Football News – Times of India

NEW DELHI: Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri, who will turn 39 in exactly two months, has officially inked a fresh one-year contract with Bengaluru FC. The agreement also includes the provision for an additional year, giving Chhetri the option to extend his association with the club.
Renowned as the third highest goal-scorer among active players worldwide, Chhetri proudly displayed a banner at the Kanteerava Stadium following India’s triumph over Lebanon in the SAFF Championship semifinal on Saturday.
The banner unequivocally declared his commitment to continue his journey with Bengaluru FC, a club with which he has amassed an impressive collection of seven trophies.
“I have signed a Bengaluru FC contract a fair few times, and what I can tell you is that it always feels special, even when it probably should not, given it is a formality. I am so happy that I will be spending two more years here,” Chhetri said after signing the contract.

“The fans have been such a vital factor in this decision. Over the years, there have been some generous offers from some very good clubs, but the fact that I couldn’t even think of going anywhere made me realize the influence our fans have had on that decision.”
Chhetri, who assumed the role of club captain since its establishment in 2013, holds the distinction of being the longest-serving player at Bengaluru FC. With an impressive tenure spanning 10 seasons, Chhetri has been an integral part of the team’s journey.
During his time with the club, Chhetri has achieved remarkable success, contributing to their triumph in various prestigious tournaments.
He played a crucial role in securing victories in the I-League in 2014 and 2016, the Federation Cup in 2015 and 2017, the Super Cup in 2018, the Indian Super League in 2019, and most recently, the Durand Cup in 2022.
Chhetri’s exceptional performances have undoubtedly played a significant role in the club’s success and solidified his status as an iconic figure in Indian football.

“This city, the club and all the people involved with it – we’re such a solid bond. And as a footballer, to get that, is very rare and special. I am fortunate, grateful and happy, and I hope that everyone associated with this family feels the same way about this extension,” Chhetri added.
Chhetri has over 250 appearances for Bengaluru FC across competitions, scoring 116 goals in the process. The talismanic striker was also the club’s top-scorer on seven occasions.
“It is an absolute honour and privilege for us at Bengaluru FC that Sunil Chhetri has chosen to extend his stay with the club. He has been the face of this football club, and continues to be its flag bearer.
“In so many ways, Bengaluru FC and Sunil Chhetri are inseparable, and we’re sure he will be at the end of many more memorable and successful moments with a team that he’s made his own,” said club owner, Parth Jindal.

The banner unveiled on Saturday, which served as a surprise to the Blues’ faithful at the Kanteerava, read ‘(Bengaluru), I’m going nowhere. Sunil Chhetri’, and was also followed by a video on the club’s social media handles.
“It’s fantastic news that Sunil has signed a new deal at the club. He’s the ultimate role model both on and off the pitch, and a fine example to all Indian players; not just professionally but also at the grassroots level.
“His hunger and desire is still as strong as ever, and that’s been proven over the last few weeks with the national team. I can’t wait to get back to working with him,” said Blues’ coach Simon Grayson.
Chhetri, who is in action with India at the SAFF Championship, will take on Kuwait in the final on Tuesday and is the current top-scorer of the tournament with five goals in four games.